2 in custody following double stabbing during fight at SUNY Westchester Community College
Investigators say an argument took a violent turn just after 12:30 p.m. Wednesday near 75 Grasslands Road.
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Two people were stabbed at SUNY Westchester Community College in Valhalla, according to county police, who initially reported three victims and later corrected the number.
Investigators say an argument took a violent turn just after 12:30 p.m. Wednesday near 75 Grasslands Road.
Paramedics took both victims to Westchester Medical Center. According to investigators, one victim was seriously wounded during the attack.
Police say officers took two suspects into custody. They were taken to Phelps Medical Center to receive treatment for fight-related injuries.
Students who witnessed the fight said they were shocked by the violence and questioned how quickly campus security responded.
“Where was security? And where were the resources officers that were on campus in a timely fashion when this first broke out?” asked student Joseph Golia.
Another student said the staff initially did not do anything.
“The teachers, the adults, they're all in shock, like a student had to call 911,” said sophomore Paula Selby.
Investigators say a knife was recovered at the scene. According to police, there is no continuing threat to the campus.
The identities of the victims and the suspects were not immediately known.
A SUNY Westchester Community College spokesperson released the following statement.
“Our top priority is ensuring a safe and welcoming campus environment for students, faculty, and staff. There was an incident on campus that has been resolved. The Westchester County Police are leading the investigation into this incident, with the full cooperation and support of the SUNY Westchester community.”
The college did not say whether there would be any changes to campus security Thursday.
Students said the incident has left them questioning whether they feel safe returning to campus.
“My parents want me to come home. They are very nervous about whether it is safe here or not. I’m questioning that too, if it’s safe," Selby said. “Anybody could bring a knife and it doesn’t seem like anybody blocking anybody from coming on campus…”
The college is encouraging students affected by the incident to take advantage of free campus mental health services.
County police urge anyone with information and/or footage of the incident to call them directly at 914-864-7701, call the voice tip line at (800) 898-TIPS (8477) or submit electronic tips to tips@wccops.com.
